Petfest returns Aug. 29

Petfest returns to Milwaukee’s lakefront on Aug. 29 for the second year in a row. The free, tail-wagging, lakeside pet-tacular takes place on Milwaukee’s Summerfest grounds, and those who attend can look forward to a bigger and better experience that’s definitely worth barking about. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with veterinarians, pet lovers, small business owners and each other in a show of furry camaraderie.

Fromm Family Foods, the festival’s primary sponsor and a creator of all-natural pet food, is partnering with many of southeastern Wisconsin’s pet businesses to create the ultimate experience for pet lovers.

One of those partners is Wisconsin Veterinary Referral Center.

“WVRC was fortunate to be a part of the inaugural Petfest, and it was an amazing event,” said WVRC’s Kristin Bowen. “Fromm did a fantastic job organizing a wonderful, free event for pets and animal lovers. They have more events, vendors and activities, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it again this year.”

WVRC will offer educational opportunities for pet owners at Petfest’s “Ask the Experts” exhibit. They’ll also be on hand to provide first aid at the festival.

Last year’s event brought in more than 8,400 two-legged attendees and 3,500 four-legged companions. Organizers hope to draw even more visitors this year.

“Our hope for year two of Petfest is to continue the momentum from our first year and create new and memorable experiences for all who join us,” said Bryan Neiman, brand director for Fromm Family Foods. “This festival is really all about connecting the community and enhancing the experience of families and their pets. By keeping it a free family event, we hope to have even more people join us. We’ve nearly doubled our footprint, added new activities and attractions and … many new and exciting sponsors, vendors and exhibitors.”

Furry festivalgoers will have many activity choices throughout the festival.

You can find out if your pet can sprint the Lure Course. And the Agility Course will test pets’ problem-solving prowess using a series of fun obstacles. Or, see if your pup can make the biggest splash down at the Dock Dive.

Petfest can even help you add a new family member. Take a stroll down Adoption Avenue to see if any furry faces say, “Take me home with you!” Adoption is a great way to give a second chance to a loving pet looking for a furr-ever home! Sponsored by Central Bark, Adoption Avenue will have representatives from many of Wisconsin’s Humane Society locations and rescue organizations.

There will be entertainment and music on some of the festival stages, along with shopping in the Pet Marketplace and Vendor Village. Participating businesses include Pet Supplies Plus, End of the Leash, The Lovin’ Oven Pet Bakery, and many others. 

“It is so fun seeing so many dogs in one place!” says Susie Bower of End of the Leash. “It is such a great event for pets lovers — a great venue on a beautiful lakefront, fun activities, interesting speakers, all for free admission and free parking. The best part, you get to take your dog! What could be better?”

Pet owners can prepare for the festival by visiting petfestmke.com to download the festival waiver in advance if they wish to bring fluffy along. The site also allows pre-registering of pets for both the Look-A-Like and Costume contests for extra fun.

Pet owners are advised to be sure their four-legged companions are current on all vaccinations should they wish to attend the festival. 

Be sure to check out facebook.com/frommpetfest for updates, and make sure to check in with #petfestmke when the big day arrives.